Former Eastern Illinois University Assistant Coach Joe Petrone , 78, Passes Away Leaving His Wife, Karen and Five Kids Behind

From 1967 to 1974, late Joe Petrone was the member of Canada's World Cup and Olympic teams.

June 22, 2026

This article was last updated by Suruchi on June 22, 2026

Joe Petrone, a renowned Edmonton soccer coach and player and former assistant coach at Eastern Illinois University, passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2026.

According, the legendary Edmonton coach and executive manager, Joe Petrone, passed away after a long battle with cancer at the age of 78.

Joseph ‘Joe’ Petrone, born on November 11, 1946, in Montagano, Italy, moved with his family to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada at the age of 12 in 1958.

He showcased his exceptional athletic skills from a very young age, participating in multiple sports, including soccer, gridiron, football, volleyball, and basketball.

Furthermore, Joe Petrone earned his Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta and also worked as a high school teacher for years.

He represented Canada at the Pan American Games in 1967 and made four international appearances in 1967 with Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team.

Joe finished fourth with Canada at the 1967 V Pan American Games in Winnipeg and won the hearts of many with his remarkable playing career.

For a short period, Joe played with the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL as a kicker, and in 1971, he was the number one draft pick of the Calgary Stampeders.

Similarly, Petrone is the top goal scorer in the history of the Alberta Major Soccer League.

The late Joe Petrone began his coaching career in 1973

After his amazing playing career, the late Joe Petrone began his coaching career in 1973 at St. Mary’s High School.

After three years, came to the United States in 1976 to serve as an assistant coach at Eastern Illinois University.

Similarly, in 1979, he was named assistant soccer coach of the Edmonton Drillers, and later, in 1980-81, he was promoted to Assistant General Manager of the Drillers.

As the Assistant General Manager of the Drillers, Joe Petrone led the team to win the NASL Indoor Championship. He also served as the Director of Soccer Operations for FC Edmonton.

From 1988 to 1990, Joe served as the Director of Player Personnel with the Edmonton Brickmen. He also served as the teacher and coach at Holy Trinity High School and off-season instructor and coordinator with the Dillers ‘Just for Kicks’ summer soccer schools.

The death of Joe Petrone has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones. Many of his loved ones are sending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this challenging phase.

Joe Petrone is survived by his longtime wife, Karen, and their five children, including four daughters, Shawna (Chris) Gallagher, Jodie (Gage) Atkinson, Paula (Kent) Karaki, Megan (Clayton Hiebert) Petrone, and an only son, Joshua Joseph ‘Josh’ Petrone.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• The late Joe Petrone wrote a book, ‘Can’t Hold Me Down’, in honour of his son, Jos, who was born with Down syndrome.
• He was of Italian Descent. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosina Petrone and Severino.
• Joe Petrone’s family has yet to provide details about his memorial and funeral services.

• Check other Articles on

Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.

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